The Florida Gators five-star true-freshman QB DJ Lagway will make his first collegiate start at home this Saturday against Samford.
Coach Billy Napier made the announcement on Wednesday during his news conference with media, noting that Mertz has not practiced all week as he is still in concussion protocol.
Mertz left the 41-17 Miami loss late in the third quarter with a concussion, and did not return.
Lagway got his first game action in garbage time, finishing the afternoon completing 3/6 passes for 31 yards and an interception, he also ran for 20 yards on three carries.
The five-star true freshman signal caller was the the No. 3 overall and No. 1 quarterback prospect in the 2024 recruiting cycle, per On3 rankings.